Whether you’re breaking glass ceilings or challenging patriarchal and gender norms in male-dominated fields, it wouldn’t hurt if you looked stylish while doing so.
To help you up your style, why not adopt these sleek and sharp men’s bags that can be easily incorporated into your bag rotation? We promise they won’t cramp your feminine style. In fact, they’ll add a dose of atypical sass that will lead to turned heads. Remember, men’s shirts and jobs aren’t the only things you can snag or aim for. The world is your oyster.
Splurge:
This 100 per cent vegetable tanned leather backpack from British luxury label Mulberry features a sleek, minimalist design that can be carried via its top handle or as a backpack. Plus, you can stash your valuables securely in the external zip pocket at the back. Pair this with a fringed jacket and ankle boots for a chic, boho look.
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Go full on #girlboss with this structured yet chic Hugo Boss briefcase. Multiple inner pockets keep you organised while the attachable shoulder straps allow you to go handsfree. Match this versatile black piece with a red midi dress and black strappy heels to really show them who’s in charge.
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Featuring a modern design that juxtaposes cotton drill and leather and finished with a neon accent, this Furla backpack features a front pocket where you can stow and access regularly used items such as your keys, tissue paper and sanitary products. In addition, the bag comes with a padded case to keep your laptop safe and secure. Pair this with brogues and a shirt and trousers combo for work.
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Whether you call them belt bags or bum bags, you can’t deny that these ’90s staples are making a comeback. But you don’t have to look uncool this time around with this sleek woven leather piece from Bottega Veneta. Perfect for storing your basic essentials when you’re out for a quick errand or lunch, channel an edgy street style by wearing it with a neon top and track pants.
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Think of messenger bags like this Burberry creation as a boxier, older brother to crossbody bags. Featuring the brand’s iconic plaid print, the bag can also be worn as a shoulder bag or as an oversized clutch. Pair this with a belted shirt dress and knife heels to play up the structured silhouette.
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This psychedelic printed holdall bag is part of the S/S’19 collection that pays homage to the late Danish furniture and interior designer Verner Panton. Roomy and all-purpose, it is a playful piece that can accompany you on short holiday trips and gym workouts. Finish with a colour block or floral off-shoulder dress to really stand out.
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Decorated with archival wildlife patches from the ’90s, this Polo Ralph Lauren duffle bag is a colourful accompaniment to your next hiking expedition. With three handles, you can carry it as a backpack as well, and we always love something that gives more value. Else, use it as a stylish bag for your gym essentials.
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Steal:
Made for the minimalist, this rectangular messenger bag is the perfect size for women who just need their wallet, keys and mobile. Bonus: You could possibly fit your lipstick too. Pair this basic but stylish piece with straight-legged jeans and a shirt.
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Don’t be fooled by the size of this large duffle bag from Herschel; it can be folded and packed into its internal pocket for ease of storage. Add it to your luggage before you travel for those times you need an additional bag to store all your shopping. We love that it works as a backpack too, and has various side sleeves and internal pockets to keep things organised.
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Faire Leather Co. started as a Kickstarter campaign that had raised over eight times more than its target, and was later backed by Italian leather label Tocco Toscano. Founded in Singapore by Joseph Lor and Ryan Choy, this spiffy briefcase is made of cross grain leather and will add power woman vibes to your outfit. We love the interesting details within, such as tab organisers to hold onto your earphones, keys and cables, pen holders, zipped pockets, slip pockets of various sizes and a business card compartment. Juxtapose the boxy silhouette with a feminine, ruffled lace dress and nude pumps.
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For a quick run to the mall or a simple bag for a date night, this boxy clutch wouldn’t look at odds with whatever you pair it with. Carry this sharp masculine piece with a flirty floral dress for dates or your slouchiest t-shirt and denim shorts for casual weekend errand duties.
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Stand out from the crowd with this holographic vinyl creation from Zara. You can wear this belt bag either around your waist or as a sling bag. Finish with a simple knotted t-shirt and jeans and slip into some high-top sneakers for a casual chic vibe.
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Keep your papers and laptop safely stowed inside this sleek and minimal shopper tote bag from Mango. Carried either by its top handle or the removable shoulder strap, you can pair it with a pantsuit ensemble for a professional aura.
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Unlike other holdalls and duffle bags which can be pretty bulky, this creation by local label Luxemono can be unzipped across its seams and collapsed into a nice flat square, making it great for storing or travels. Plus you get to customise the monogram and add emojis even.
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